Saab 92

vs

Saab 900

Sweden vs Sweden — 1949 vs 1978

Saab 92 (1949)
Saab 900 (1978)
Specifications
92 Standard900 Turbo SPG (Special Performance Group)
Horsepower25 hp175 hp
Torque38 lb-ft201 lb-ft
Engine Size764 cc1,985 cc
0-60 mph7.5 sec
Top Speed65 mph140 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec
Weight1,786 lbs2,811 lbs
Wheelbase2,470 mm2,520 mm
Length3,945 mm4,732 mm
Units Produced20,128
Original MSRP$28,000
Value (Excellent)$60,000$35,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity8/106/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo SPG (Special Performance Group) with more power, higher top speed, better value. The 1949 Saab 92 Standard offers lighter weight, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Saab has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1949 Saab 92 Standard with the 1978 Saab 900 Turbo SPG (Special Performance Group) highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo SPG (Special Performance Group) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 175 hp compared to 25 hp, a 150-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Saab 92 uses a Inline-2 Two-Stroke displacing 764 cc, while the Saab 900 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Turbocharged with 1,985 cc. The 1978 Saab 900 Turbo SPG (Special Performance Group) claims a higher top speed at 140 mph compared to 65 mph. The Saab 92 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1025 lbs lighter. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.